Declan

The Syndicates #10

by Cala Riley

Nikita
Isolation is nothing new to me.
I’ve spent my entire life keeping my head down and mouth shut.
Until I meet him.
Declan O’Brien.
Something about him has me running my mouth before my mind can catch up.
When I’m given an ultimatum to die or return to Russia and my father, I choose death.
Only Declan won’t allow it. How is this my life right now?

Declan
Responsibility is the name of the game as second in command to the Chicago Westies.
It’s the only thing I have time for in my life.
Until Her.
Nikita Smirnova.
She’s meant to be the enemy, the ice princess across the hall.
Only when she chooses death over going home, I can’t allow it to happen.
So I married her.
What did I just do?

With two hearts stuck in a marriage neither wanted, will they find a way to make it work or are they destined to fail?

**Some subjects in this book may be triggering. For more information please check our website.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Slow Burn, Found Family, Dark Romance, Marriage Of Convenience, He Falls First

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 25, 2024

About the author

Cala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.

Check out our linktree for more information:
https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley

Reviews

[Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: enemies to lovers, forced marriage
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥

“𝘈 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘢 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘯. 𝘖𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.”

Absolutely loved this book so much! Declan is a fast paced, forced proximity, forced marriage, enemies to lover story with tons of laugh out loud moments. I loved Declan and how protective he was of his found family and his bromance with Tristano, lol. Nikita was great! A hard nut to crack at first due to how she was raised and treated, but I thought she had great growth during the story. I loved that the "girl gang" was so accepting and especially liked her relationship with Autumn, because of how different they are. Declan and Nikita had tons of spicy chemistry and their journey was super fun to read.

“𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘺. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘰𝘧𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘮𝘦.”

[Kate V · Rating 3 out of 5]

Declan is the 10th book in The Syndicates series and features Declan and Nikita. This was an arranged marriage with an enemies to lovers feel and most definitely more slow burn. It was not my favorite mainly because I felt like Declan was missing some backbone and Nikita was the star of the show in terms of character growth.

I didn't love the slow burn nature of this story and felt like it dragged a bit but when they did come together, it was sweet.

"You are mine. I don’t like others coveting what is mine, but I will never dampen your shine, wifey. If you want to show off what a goddess you are, I will stand by your side and make sure each one of those fuckers knows that there is only one man who worships at your shrine, baby. That’s me.”

Overall, didn't love it, didn't hate but it wasn't as memorable as other couples in this series.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keeps getting better and better! Declan and Nikita stole the show with a huge side of the loveable Tris!!

This was fast paced, action packed, heavy on the sexual tension and oh so good. One part actually made me cry. So many feels! Ya'll did so good!

Nikita's life has been turned upside down and Declan can't decide if he wants to screw her, shield her or shoo her to the curb. He can't believe that she's as oblivious as it seems she is regarding her father and his barbaric ways.

One scary night brings them even closer which allows no retreat from the tension between these two. Declan must keep her safe, at all costs.

These two were pure fire and was pulled into their story from the start!

[Amaris (IG: readwithamaris_ ) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

Tropes:
💚Mafia
💚Arranged Marriage
💚Enemies to lovers
💚Slow burn
💚One bed

I ATE THIS BOOK UP!! I was obsessed with Declan. The way he stepped up for Nikita made my heart pitter patter 😂 I love how protective he was over her from beginning to end. My poor baby Nikita. That girl went THROUGH it with her “family”. I couldn’t fault her for having so many shields up to protect herself. Both characters were so interesting! I also loved seeing how Nikita related to the rest of the women in this world. Their girl tribe was one of my favorite things about this book.

I loved watching Nikita and Declan’s relationship develop and watching them learn to communicate with one another. The way he just constantly reassured her that she was safe with him made my heart so happy.

The suspense element to this book was really fun to read as well. I think it was done really well and the reveal had me floored!

Overall, this was a great read, I am so grateful to the ladies of Cala Riley and their team for the opportunity to ARC read this book. 💚

[♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖣𝖾𝖼𝗅𝖺𝗇
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖭𝗂𝗄𝗂𝗍𝖺
5 𝘔𝘰 𝘊𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘪 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

𝘋𝘦𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘯 𝘉𝘺 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘢 𝘙𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘺

Nikita, having a mindset of men being cruel was just how she grew up, and she was nothing more than a pawn in all the games her father played. But she did her best to be invincible to him, that didn't work out when he basically gave her to the Yakuza, who sent her to be under the watchful eye of the Irish Mafia.

Declan, second in command to Cal, hacker and terrible communicator to his best friend Tristano. For the past two(or one) years(I think...) he has been in charge of Nikita's security, but he has been intrigued with her from the beginning.


When Nikita's life is threatened Declan will do everything he can to protect her, even if that means marriage. But he doesn't understand that her perception of men is so bad, and when he does he does everything in his power to prove that she means the world to him. And when he finds out she has a stalker out to get her, he will kill to protect her.

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Autumn, honestly has not been my favourite character for the past 2 books now.

Miya 💜

Tristano & Serena ❤️ loved seeing them in this one.

...Kado! Impatiently waiting for this one

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🔪 🔫🔪🔫🔪
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🔪 💋🔪💋🔪
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧 💧

[Amoyisreadingxoxo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Story:📕📕📕📕📕

I think I was FOR SURE a mafia wife in my past life or something because the way I love this book so much is unreal!!🤭

Declan is so loyal and willing to defend his family and friends at any cost, so it’s no surprise that he jumps in to save Nikita from her predicament. He was so protective for the beginning, even when he detested her and the world she’s from. He opened up her so well once he realized that this relationship was something he wanted, and would do ANYTHING to protect.💚

Nikita is sooooo stabby and I’m here for it🤣🤣
She did not hesitate when it comes to defending herself from others harming her, and she’s had to do that many times since women aren’t valued in her world. It was so sad to see her be so broken when it comes to being treated with literal human DECENCY when that’s something she’s always deserved!!
I’m so glad that Declan was there to teach her she deserves to be loved, and that as his wife she deserves EVERYTHING this world has to offer.😍🫠

This slow burn was so gooooooood ahhh!
I was be literally giggling lol, because you could tell it was so genuine. And when the spice hit, IT HIT😌

Cala Riley, thank you so much for this wonderful story!
This book is going into my favorite mafia reads of the year for sure.💚🖤

[Kylie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the M O T H E R of all slow burns. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s continue.
Declan is delicious, with a hard exterior that only the perfect woman can break. He’s initially torn by his feelings for Nikiti. He forces her into a marriage in order to save her life. They “try” to stay away from one another, but the banter and constant bickering with one another is basically like f0r3play for them.
Declan and Nikiti’s story is filled with a lot of intense moments, a boatload of chemistry, and a twist that I never saw coming!
This was such a page-turner and had me on the edge of my seat. I loved that despite his feelings towards her initially, he was willing to give up his future with finding love to keep her safe. Their HEA was beautiful, especially the bonus epilogue!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Keza Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan is so freaking sweet!

Nikita has been used as a pawn by her father she had no idea what healthy relationships are like. So, to keep her safe, Declan puts his hand up to marry her.

There is a slow burn build-up between them, and its so good. I can't help but love Nikita. She has such a defiant innocence about her.

As always, Cala Riley delivered. This book was spicy, full of action and suspense, and many of our favourite couples played a part as well. Tristano was a hoot! 😆

[Daniela Tavares · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/6.
🌶🌶/5.

I loved this couple! This was the couple I was looking forward to since we got a glimpse of what Declan & Nikita's interactions were like when she moved in next door. I also love a prickly fmc but that can also annoy me depending on how long she stays that way and I'm happy to say that didn't happen with this story. Cala Riley has been hitting their stride with these latest books imo and I can't wait to read Kado.

Nikita has an excuse for a father and she gets sent to Haruaki to be "kept" and to do with her as he wish so he puts her in the same building as Declan and his job was to keep tabs on her until she could be trusted. Suffice to say the first time Nikita & Declan met, there was a sort of hostile banter. Nikita has a very dark view on men but especially the ones that are supposed to love her so she presents an icy facade to the world but underneath all that, there's a girl to give love but also get love unconditionally.
I loved that about her but also how little by little she melts just a little bit at a time. First was with Emily, Callum & Autumn's daughter, and then with Declan. She had a lot to work through. Her life in Russia left her with very bad views so whenever Declan or someone would say or do something, she almost had to convince herself that they wouldn't harm her in any way. With Declan, she pushed what she thought were his boundaries to see how he would react and depending on it, if she could trust him. I loved how she flourished under everyone's care but especially Declan's.
I loved her and I hope we get glimpses of them later on!

Declan was a gentleman from the very beginning, at least since he married Nikita and it was paramount that he wouldn't do anything to her unless she wanted to. Suffice to say, he had too much patience. 🤭
His wife was trying so hard to get his attention and he just thought she wanted him to have a baby. I loved seeing Nikita going into research mode in order to know how to seduce a man. It was adorable but also a bit maddening when Declan would just disappear because otherwise he wouldn't control himself around her.
I loved that once it was clear to Declan that his wife desired him for him, he went all in and started wooing her. Took her on dates, got to know her more and saw what was underneath her armor and he just fell more in love with the beautiful woman that was his wifey and it was beautiful to see. 🥰

I loved the friendship she formed with the other ladies. Once Nikita was married, she was an O'Brien therefore she was family and the women in the family have each other's backs.
Tristano, Declan's BFF, is one of the highlights in the story. He is so endearing and I loved seeing from others pov's how much he cared about Declan and vice versa. They are bromance goals!

I very much like the turns of events and Nikita taking matters into her own hands. Loved to see it.
We can almost see an end to the overarching theme of the series and I can't wait to see all of it unfold.

* I read an arc of this book. *

[Books, Booze & Bon Voyage (Krista Webster) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan is book ten in Cala Riley’s The Syndicate series but can be read as a standalone. This time we have Callum’s second in command Declan and his relationship with Nikita, from the Russian Bratva. This is an enemies to lovers, forced marriage, mafia romance. Their romance might be a slow burn but the story is fast paced, full of sexual tension and suspense. It also has plenty of banter and funny moments, especially from his best friend Tristano, who knows from the start these two are perfect for each other. Enjoy as they battle their unexpected feelings and events change their lives forever.

This continues straight on from the events in Oh Holy Night. The attack on the families has upset Haruaki and he blames Nikita. Her father Vladimir, gave her to himi a year ago and the Westies have been guarding her. Declan is so concerned when she chooses death over going home that he offers to marry her to keep her safe. She has got under his skin and now he has done something he thought he never would to protect her.

Nikita can’t understand why he is protecting her, when all she has ever known or experienced is abusive and controlling men. He has never hurt her in all the time they have been neighbours but knowing what her sister has been through thanks to their father, she prepares for the worse with Declan. She never lets her emotions show so he calls her the Russian Ice Princess. She has seen his violent and possessive side so is shocked when he is caring and gentle with her.

Their wedding night surprises them and is the catalyst that ignites the spark between them. They are both confused and conflicted over their feelings after a year of hating each other. Declan shows his protective side early on and I loved how he was determined to demolish the walls she has built up. He is captivated by her wild side when they sling insults at each other and fight constantly, but quickly realises she’s a victim not a villain. What happens when it doesn’t feel fake anymore? How are they going to make the other fall in love with them? Will they both get what they want? Games are played and everything isn't as it seems.

Tristano was amazing. I loved how dramatic he was and how anything can come out of his mouth, how poor Serena puts up with him. I worried Declan was pushing their friendship to the limit. Most of the other characters from this series appear because the families are still working together to stop the trafficking ring. It was great how the women really support Nikita and offer their advice.

While the couple negotiate married life they discover she has a stalker. Then things escalate with threats and attacks affecting everyone. Can Declan save her again? Be prepared for startling revelations and astounding twists at the end. I think things are about to get crazy so really looking forward to the next book in this excellent series.

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Declan O’Brien has no desire to ever get married or have a family but when a woman is forced between returning to her home country or death and she chooses death, Declan knows he needs to marry her to protect her. He believes her when she says that she had nothing to do with the Russians shooting up a house after a meeting between two powerful groups of men but also is aware something isn’t right.

Nikita was sent to America for a reason by her father but when she would rather face death than be returned to him she finds herself married to a man who doesn’t love her. Yet she can’t deny her attraction to him.

Will Declan and Nikita manage to keep their marriage professional, or will their attraction win over and have Declan realize he actually wants what he never thought he did.

I really enjoyed this book but it was the first one I have read in this series so I realized there is so much I didn’t know and I will be going back and starting this series from the start.

I really liked Declan’s protective nature and I knew he was going to be loyal to Nikita even if at the beginning he didn’t want a marriage to her or wanted the marriage to become physical. Yet as soon as he realized she was in danger he began to change his tune as he began to see how much he cared about her.

Nikita was a great character as she had been through so much in the past being used by her father yet she never gave up dreaming about what she wanted in life. She grasped onto her dreams and never gave up which was refreshing as life had no been kind to her.

There was so much underlying chemistry between Declan and Nikita in the book but I am not aware of everything they went through before this book as it sounds like there was a lot of things happening before hand. They got to a level of trust and then everything progressed from there in a believable way.

I liked the way Nikita began to gather friends and that they didn’t judge her on her actions from the past once they understood everything she had been through.

I was definitely surprised at who was behind everything that Nikita went through and I am definitely going to go back and start this series from the beginning!- Rebecca

[Another librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

✍️ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✍️
“DECLAN” CALA RILEY ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️.5/5

Decimo libro della serie “The Syndicate”, “Declan” chiude il cerchio della famiglia irlandese all’interno della mafia.

Declan è il braccio destro di Callum, boss della mafia irlandese di Chicago. E’ bravo con i computer e il suo capo si fida ciecamente di lui, tanto da affidargli un compito importante: deve sorvegliare Nikita, la figlia di un soldato della Batva che ha voltato le spalle alla sua famiglia, e per la protezione ha dovuto scambiare sua figlia, che è stata affidata alla Yakuza, ma Kai non sapeva cosa “farne”della donna, quindi Callum si è proposto di portarla tra i propri ranghi. Per Declan è un compito che piano piano è diventato insopportabile perché Nikita è odiosa per lui, vive solo per dargli fastidio, e lui non può starle accanto nemmeno un minuto.
Tutto cambia nel momento in cui la vita di Nikita è minacciata e l’unica soluzione è un matrimonio combinato. Declan, con sua enorme sorpresa, si propone come volontario. Da quel momento in poi scoprirà una persona completamente diversa, una donna estremamente problematica che si nasconde sotto una corazza di freddezza e indifferenza.

Beh che dire, non me lo aspettavo. Nonostante Declan mi avesse incuriosito già dalla prima volta in cui si era visto nel libro di Enzo, non mi aspettavo che mi sarebbe piaciuto poi così tanto, e invece.
Avevo anche paura del trope dello slow burn, ma il duo di scrittrici come al solito cattura l’attenzione fin dall’inizio e crea una tensione tra i due personaggi che non si può nemmeno descrivere. L’attrazione fra Declan e Nikita cresce piano piano, scoprendosi a poco a poco e con piccoli gesti e piccole rivelazioni. Ed è quello che a me manda più di tutti in estasi: quei piccoli dettagli che agli altri potrebbero sembrare insignificanti ma che nella coppia sono fondamentali.

Nikita è un personaggio estremamente fragile, è stata protetta per tutta la vita dal mondo esterno, ma non in senso positivo: è stata abituata dalla sua famiglia a dover mantenere intatta la sua innocenza per poter poi servire in un eventuale matrimonio combinato. E’ cresciuta con un padre crudele e insensibile. E’ stata abituata a pensare che la donna serve solo per il piacere dell’uomo e nel momento in cui essa sbaglia arrivano le punizioni corporali. La prima volta che sbaglia davanti a Declan e si aspetta uno schiaffo, rimane stupita dalla faccia inorridita dell’uomo che gli dice che non è la normalità. Quindi, oltre a riscoprire il mondo, Nikita si ritroverà anche a riscoprire se stessa sotto una nuova veste.
Ho amato tantissimo le dinamiche fra i due. La tensione non è presente fin da subito, perché Nikita deve scoprire prima cosa sia l’attrazione verso un altro essere umano, ma una volta che hanno superato il primo scoglio, la chimica si sviluppa in men che non si dica.

Mancano solo due libri e la serie giungerà alla sua conclusione e non voglio vedere la fine.

[ʚɞ Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝜗𝜚 Declan released today! 𝜗𝜚
Declan, book 10 in the Syndicates Series by Cala Riley. ⋆.˚ All Syndicates books can be read as standalones.

!!! ⚘ Read Now: https://geni.us/oulP3A

Do you like:
𝜗𝜚 Mafia
𝜗𝜚 Arranged Marriage
𝜗𝜚 Enemies to lovers
𝜗𝜚 Slow Burn
𝜗𝜚 One Bed

ʚɞ || between declan and nikita, the two were just so good for each other. even with nikita not wanting him— the urge couldn’t stop!

I am obsessedd with the relationship build up between the both of them. ˚‧｡⋆🌻⋆｡‧˚ watching declan step in to save her from going back to russia, or even getting killed. he just had to be her hero. the character had interesting characteristics, making me just so intrigued by each chapter of theirs. I loved their buildup, commitment to each other and their relationship through and throughout. his constant reassurance to her made my heart bleed. like…i need that.

• poor baby nikita went through a lot in russia with her family. watching her grow up and thrive from the past made me want to see her more, see through her eyes. which we did, but we also got to see how protective declan had been towards her, watching him do anything to help her, care for her.

• girl power. ᥫ᭡

• he would kill for her. ᥫ᭡

• in conclusion; overall, this book made me scream, smile, sigh, cry at some points. (i’m emotional). the absolute hold it has over me is incredible. i could honestly pick it up again, waiting and watching declan and nikita fall in love over, and over again. the character development, character building… everything! it was honestly one of the best books i’ve read so far, and i’m so excited to start reading each books behind from this book, so i’m caught up with everything! — i need all over them in paperback, asap.

!! — ᥫ᭡ thank you so much to cala riley, my absolute sweetest angels ever, for letting me have an arc of this book! (i always post reviews on release day!) it has been a pleasure and an amazing journey with declan and nikita, and im so happy i got to meet them!!! ,, 100% recommend them to everybody. hope you love them as much as i do.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watch out, Declan O’Brien. I’m a woman on a mission, and I won’t stop until I get what I want.

In the electrifying tenth instalment of the Syndicate series penned by the talented duo Cala Riley, readers are once again swept away on a journey that defies expectations and ignites passions. With each turn of the page, Cala Riley prove why they are masters of the romance genre, effortlessly weaving a tale that is as captivating as it is enthralling.

“But you won’t let me feel the heat. Instead, I’m stuck trying to get myself off while thinking about you. It’s really not fair.

What sets this book apart is the meticulous attention to detail given to the relationship between Declan and Nikita. Rather than rushing their journey from enemies to lovers, the authors allow their transformation to unfold organically, at a pace dictated by the characters themselves. The result is a love story that simmers with sensuality, each moment between the couple brimming with undeniable chemistry and when the pair finally give in to their passion it is explosive.

Amidst the whirlwind romance, danger lurks in the shadows in the form of Nikita's vengeful Russian father, adding a thrilling layer of suspense to the narrative. As Nikita finds herself caught between loyalty to her newfound love and the danger from ties to her family, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the outcome of this high-stakes conflict.

Yet, amidst the adrenaline-pumping action, Cala Riley skillfully carve out moments of camaraderie and empowerment, showcasing the strength and resilience of the female characters who have graced the pages of previous books in the series. As they rally to Nikita's side, their unwavering support serves as a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable when faced with the unwavering bond of sisterhood.

In "The Tenth Book in the Syndicate Series," Cala Riley has once again delivered a spellbinding tale that will leave readers breathless and longing for more. With its intoxicating blend of romance, suspense, and female empowerment, this book is sure to delight both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan and Nikita are finally in our hands and I for one am excited. Declan is the tenth installment in The Syndicate series and what an action-packed enemies-to-lovers, forced marriage book it is. I have been waiting for their story since the teaser at the end of Tristano. Cala Riley has given us a story so intriguing that the only thing you can do is keep reading to find out who is doing everything and why. Not only is Declan and Nikita's story full of suspense, but it is also full of angst, banter, chemistry, friendship and a found family that is not blood-related..
Declan is the second in command of the Chicago Westies and has been given the lovely job of watching over the daughter of the Russian mafia, Nikita. Talk about fire and dynamite. Trust and understanding are not something that either one of them has towards one another but there is a pull that they fight. She is beautiful but cold as ice so he names her Ice Princess. Questions as to why she is there? Why would her father give her us as collateral to Haruki? When death is preferred over living, Declan knows something is going on and steps up to do the unthinkable, marry her. Here is where everything gets interesting. When danger enters the picture he does the only thing he can, protect his wife. The sexual banter and tension are so strong that everyone around them can feel it. Nikita goes from one extreme to the other and now wants her husband the way any woman would. Declan can't fight his feelings no matter how many times he runs, she is always in his thoughts.
While reading this book, I felt I knew who was causing all the danger and why. In true Cala Riley, they threw in so many twists and turns that I kept second-guessing myself.

[MNHockeymomreads (Heather) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delcan has no right to be such a ruthless mafia man, then turn around and be the sweetest cinnamon roll around. But in reality, he is only sweet for a select few people. And Nikita is one of them. And to be fair, it sort of drives him a little crazy that she can get to him. He isn’t supposed to have feelings.
Nikita hasn’t had the easiest life, it has really been about what pleases the men in her family….she hates it but there is little that she can do about it. So when she ends up in the enemy's care, she tries to make the best of her life. But Declan is just getting under her skin. She too doesn't like the feelings that she has for him, but they just won’t go away!
I love when characters are blind to what is in front of them, and wow are Declan and Nikita especially blind to their attraction. They are inexplicably attracted to one another, and really drawn to each other. And Declan seems to always seem to find a way to make Nikita feel safe and looked after, and that feeling of comfort isn’t something she wants to get used to.
The banter in this book is top notch as well as the push pull that these two characters put themselves through. And man, when Declan finally decides that he is all in, this man is ALL IN! And there is no way he is letting someone touch his wife. While this is a much slower burn than we are used to with Cala Riley they do not disappoint on this one, the connection and tension between Declan and Nikita is palpable and there is spice in other forms in this book! If you love a ruthless mafia family that cherishes their women, then this book and series is a must read for you! I adored every second of Declan and Nikita and their HEA is perfection!

[Danielle Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan grew up poor and in a home full of false hope. He thought his parent were in love until he got older and learned they were not in love at all but that’s the complete opposite. He never saw himself more than a one and done, he didn’t want to be his father he didn’t know how to love. That is until he was forced to protect a bratty little Russian who just gets totally under his skin and is immune to his charm. But when it’s her life on the line he does the most irrational thing he’s ever done in his life…marriage.

Nikita has always felt she wasn’t good enough because she didn’t have the proper anatomy parts, to be someone seen but not heard. But keeping her vCard made her valuable, when her father gets into some hot water with the Yakuza she is his only leverage. Yet the Yakuza wants nothing to do with her so she is handed over to the Westies for protecting. When a Christmas get together ends due to an attach she is the one to blame, and she may have to pay with her life, or be sent back to Russia. Either way ending in the same way..dëath. That is until the last person she’d ever expect to stick up for her, her neighbor, neither can stand the other yet here he is purposing..MARRIAGE!

Can Nikita let her upbringing ruin the happiness that may lie ahead of her? Or can Declan get his head out of his äss and be the man of her dreams? Will they keep butting heads or will they let each other enjoy the happiness they each deserve?

Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Cala Riley my favorite writing duo, y’all have done it again ladies 👏🏻. I always love all of your men Declan was drool worthy from the start but just got better as the book went on and I had fully melted for him. I was so excited to see Tristano make an appearance “Dec’s second wife” haha.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan and Nikita have both always done what was asked of them. Declan for the Family and Nikita because her father is part of the Family. She knew she would be a pawn in his game and tried to stay hidden as much as possible, that is until she has to go to Haruaki, who in turns hands her to Callum. When the time comes Declan is the one to protect her, even though the prickly princess has always given him nothing but sass. Nikita has only heard of what happens when you don’t submit, but she refuses to when it comes to Declan, he managed to bring out the best in her. What I love about these two, is that there is such a connection there but neither know what it is besides a pull. Both grew up with no love around them and for Nikita it was never anything beyond fear. Their arranged marriage might feel like a sentence for both of them, but when they are forced together they find that the thread tightens to the point of no return and neither are truly disappointed with that.

I adore the friendship Tris has with Declan and that it is Tris that gets Nikita to come out of her shell enough that Declan realizes that she has been in a gilded cage all her life and just wants to spread her wings. As soon as these two find their happiness, we get a suspense twist and Declan has to do everything possible for his wifey. I love that Nikita truly is oblivious to everything and Declan just doesn’t understand how clueless she is. This is one of those books that once you sit down, you might as well not plan to stop reading until you finish. Cannot wait for more!!

[VicReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

💚 𝙳𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚗 💚
𝚋𝚢 @author.cala.riley

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4/5 ⭐️
.5/5 🌶️

𝙳𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚗 releases 4/25

↓↓
Nikita has tried to stay out of the way of her sadistic father for all of her life until she ends up being sold off. She finds herself under the protection of Declan. After a Christmas gone wrong and they are attacked by her father, her life is put on the line. Either go back to Russia or marry. 

Declan has been protecting and saving Nikita for over a year and now that she is threatened to be sent away he steps up and offers to marry her. Things definitely didn't go to plan at first, he pushes her away and continues to keep her in isolation and she maintains being the ice princess.

I loved watching their relationship develop and transform the way it did. The way he was there for her and was constantly reassuring her that she was safe and loved made me so happy that she finally got what she deserved.

There is so much with this book, mafias, action, suspense (I was not prepared for that shocker!!!!), love and healing. Can't wait for the next in the series.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💚 Mafia
💚 Arranged Marriage
💚 Enemies to lovers
💚 Slow burn
💚 One bed

🏷️
#calariley #syndicatesseries #arrangedmarriage #slowburn #alphahero #darkromancereader #mafiaromancebooks #enemiestoloversromance #booktropes #smutbooks #romancereader #arcreaders #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #spicyromance #smutlovers #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Declan is a thrilling and sensual addition to The Syndicates series. The story follows a determined woman on a mission to get what she wants from the enigmatic Declan O'Brien, a powerful and aloof businessman. The book delivers a tantalizing cat-and-mouse dynamic as the protagonist tries to break through Declan's guarded exterior and ignite the undeniable passion between them.

The author does an excellent job of building the sexual tension, leaving the reader eagerly anticipating whether the main characters will finally give in to their desires. While the plot may follow a familiar romantic suspense trope, Riley's skilled writing and the intriguing personalities of Declan and the female lead make this a highly enjoyable and page-turning read.

The chemistry between the two protagonists is palpable, with Riley expertly crafting scenes that crackle with sensual energy. Declan's cool, controlled demeanor is the perfect foil to the heroine's determination, creating a dynamic that keeps the reader hooked. The push-and-pull of their relationship is both frustrating and thrilling, mirroring the suspenseful elements of the plot.

Fans of steamy contemporary romance will find a lot to love in Declan. It provides a satisfying dose of spice and drama that is sure to leave readers eager for the next installment in The Syndicates series. Riley's skilled storytelling and the compelling characters make this a must-read for anyone seeking an addictive romantic suspense novel.

[Rebecca Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed for Sassy Southern Book Blog

I really enjoyed this book but it was the first one I have read in this series so I realized there is so much I didn’t know and I will be going back and starting this series from the start.

I really liked Declan’s protective nature and I knew he was going to be loyal to Nikita even if at the beginning he didn’t want a marriage to her or wanted the marriage to become physical. Yet as soon as he realized she was in danger he began to change his tune as he began to see how much he cared about her.

Nikita was a great character as she had been through so much in the past being used by her father yet she never gave up dreaming about what she wanted in life. She grasped onto her dreams and never gave up which was refreshing as life had no been kind to her.

There was so much underlying chemistry between Declan and Nikita in the book but I am not aware of everything they went through before this book as it sounds like there was a lot of things happening before hand. They got to a level of trust and then everything progressed from there in a believable way.

I liked the way Nikita began to gather friends and that they didn’t judge her on her actions from the past once they understood everything she had been through.

I was definitely surprised at who was behind everything that Nikita went through and I am definitely going to go back and start this series from the beginning!

[The Dragon Den Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review of Declan by Cala Riley
* * * * *
An arranged marriage in the world of blood, secrets, ties and death. It was not wanted. It was not planned. It was to save her life, and he would still fight for her to the end.

Nikita was collateral. Nothing more. Not important.
The only perk is that she was more free from her father's grasp than she had ever been in her life...that is until an attack has her seen as at fault.
The only way to save her - from a bullet or a one way ticket ack to Russia - was a marriage between her and Declan...a man she was all too happy to stab.
Declan knew Nikita was a troubled woman from a bad father, but he never knew how much until her life is truly put in danger.
It's not a simple marriage. There was no love at first sight.
But he will protect her.
She is his.

Nothing simple or easy going in this read. It's death penalties and gun fights (or a bow and arrow - pick your poison) and baby bonding and a harsh look into a childhood that needed saving.
Nikita's father is a piece of trash, her poor sister needs saving, her mother is lost, and all she has now is her husband - a man she never has to be afraid of. Not an ideal start to a healthy marriage, but it was not toxic or twisted even if a bit cold. It was sweet and lovely when things started to warm up.
Great read!

[Britney Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan has put me back in my mafia era! My goodness was this book incredible!

I came into this series late lol. I started with the Christmas novella and that got me hooked but Declan got me even more hooked! I need to go back and start book 1 now.

Sorry I needed to get that out. Back to Declan and Nikita, these two had me gaga over them! Gosh the little glimpse I got of them in the Christmas novella got me so excited for their story, but gosh starting this book I was sucked in from page one! Truthfully as much as both of them intrigued me, Nikita was the one that I was most excited to read about. Her story, gosh this poor girl had my heart going out to her. But I just loved who she turned out to be. And I loved the banter she had with Declan, made it so fun to read.

Now Declan took me by surprise. This man was not what I thought he would be but he turned out even better than I thought! Let’s just say there was a side to him I did not expect to see with a mafia man.

I didn’t want their story to end. I need more of them but I cannot wait to get pieces of them in the next book of the series!!
.
.
.
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️(Not a real spicy book but it doesn’t need it and what spice you do get it SPICY and really sweet too lol)
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
10/10 recommendation‼️

[MHT Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohhh man this was a great book!!! The twists and turns, the tense moments, the action! This is a slow burn so be prepared for that. Oh man, I devoured this in one afternoon. We have Nikita who was given to the Yakuza to pay a debt her father had. She was taught her only worth was her virtue and she was punished with a very heavy hand. She wasn’t loved by anyone in her family because feelings were a weakness. The Yakuza didn’t want a Russian in their home so they sent her with the Irish. Declan was in charge for overseeing her, and he took it very seriously. Went an attack took place while wife of other heads of the syndicate were around the leader of the Yakuza blamed Nikita. Instead of taking her life Declan offered to marry her to bring her in to the family. Neither of them wanted to be married but it was the only way for her to leave with her life. Watching the growth of Nikita and Declan’s relationship was so stressful because the communication was not there. But with the help of friends the figure it out and the HEA is everything you could want. This kept me on the edge the entire time, the story was amazing!

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Declan and Nikita so much! I felt they had some sort of spark in Oh Holy Night, so I was excited to see what this book would give us.
Those last few chapters really had me on the edge of my seat and couldn't read them fast enough.
Her stalker really gave me the ick, and I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.

Nikita was handed over to the Yakuza, by her father, to foster some favor. But they don't trust her father so she is handed over to the Chicago Westies. They will keep an eye on her and protect her. She's used to keeping her head down and her mouth shut but something about Declan O'Brien makes that impossible.

After the attack on Christmas, she is given an ultimatum. Die or return to Russia and her father. Nikita would rather choose death.

Despite all his responsibilities, Declan can't stomach the idea of her dying.
So he marries her.
It will be a marriage in name only.

But Nikita finds herself wanting more.
And Declan is falling for his wife.

Thanks so much to the authors for this ARC to review!

[Sierra loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan- Cala Riley- 320 pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✅TW’s
Nikita is collateral in a war against the Russian mafia and the Yakuza. She has a hard life and doesn’t trust others. Declan is doing anything he can to save even if that’s marrying her.
This series is so good. I devour each book. You see glimpses of Nikita and Declan in the some of the other books but this can be read as a standalone. I love this book. I will read anything Cala Riley writes. This book is so good. I’m a sucker for mafia romances. I also loved Declan. He was so protective of her and I loved it. Declan is willing to let Nikita dress as she wants because he knows how to fight. He would do anything for her. Nikita is also a strong FMC. She wasn’t afraid to defend herself. I can’t wait to read more books in this series.
Tropes:
-arranged marriage
-mafia
-slow burn
-neighbors
-one bed
-
Arc copy for an honest review

[ReadonReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first time Declan sets eyes on Nikita there is an attraction, but the coldness that rolls off of her keeps him in check. Nikita has lived her life knowing that it would never be her own, she knows what will be demanded of her, and is taught that all men will take what they want without asking keeping her in fear and frozen. The banter between Nikita and Declan is on point and builds this tension between them that they think they will never act on, but in order to save her life Declan sacrifices his single status and marries her. Things are hard to navigate for both of them and neither really knows what they want from this marriage until feelings start to get involved. The slow burn that builds between them makes their story oh so sweet when things heat up and seeing this ruthless mafia guy become so sweet and tender for his wife was perfection and made me love him even more. Twists that pop up towards the end keeps the suspense alive and took me by surprise, but kept me glued in.

[Flo₂₂]

at 73% i couldn't force my self anymore to finish it.
This is wayyyyy to slow burn for my liking lol.
73% in and they are finally leading to be intimate or kiss or whatever but by this point i was so tired of it lol...230 pages are a lot without a glimpse of passion,neediness something lol.
Yeah they both were attracted to each others but it ended up being a flat plot line , and dragged on to much, they both didn't work on it. Getting to 70% and starting with the chemistry it's wayyyyy to late for me. Also i skipped a few of the other couples books, and it's mentioned she was anyway before marriage 1 year under his care, and that year there was nothing between them, then they marry for protection and again nothing between them, i'm frustrated with this book lol.
I hate how he also take away the hymen only because they had to show the sheets , so clinical . ugh
They were nice characters but yeah, this didn't work for me.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a Mafia romance and I love Cala Riley so this book was a no brainer for me to read.

If you love an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers and a slow burn than this book is for you.

I LOVED Declan that man was not only an alpha male, loyal and protective he was so sweet with Nikita. When Nikita is about to face a fate of death Declan jumps in and offers to marry her. I loved how Nikita and Declan grew to trust and love each other. Nikita comes from a family that is very much the opposite of the world Declan is in. Nikita doesn't know what love is and Declan and his friends welcome her with open arms and show her what it means to be loved and cherished as family. I loved how when harm came to anyone she loved Nikita was willing to step in defend those around her. I was shocked at the turn of events with the suspense in the book and it was done so well!

I could have read a longer book about these two because I honestly loved them and their dynamics together. I can't wait to see them pop up in Cala's other books.

Thank you to Cala Riley for the arc of this book.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 10th book in this phenomenal series and this is Dalton and Nikita’s story.
Declan is second-in-charge of the Chicago Westie, and Nikita is an ice princess, who is unloved by her family, Declan has watched over Nikita for the past year, and when she is given the option to die or return to Russia and her father, she choses death, but Declan will not allow that, and he offers to marry her to keep her safe and protected.
This is a well written story which is a slow burn, which is action packed, with family, friendships, enemies / lovers, an arranged marriage, danger, suspense, intrigue, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, haunting, twisted, and steamy addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.